The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has entered high-level consultations with the United States following Washington’s recent announcement of possible travel restrictions targeting nationals from 36 countries, including the DRC.
In response to these proposed measures, senior Congolese officials met with U.S. Ambassador to the DRC, Lucy Tamlyn, as part of regular bilateral dialogue aimed at addressing mutual concerns and strengthening cooperation.
The Congolese delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Security, Decentralization and Customary Affairs, Shabani Lukoo Bihango J., and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner.
Described as “frank and constructive” in an official statement released Friday, the meeting focused on Washington’s concerns surrounding the security of travel documents and the robustness of migration control systems in the countries listed for possible restrictions.
“These discussions reaffirm the shared desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of international mobility, secure travel documents, and migration management,” the statement from Kinshasa noted.
The U.S. initiative, aimed at tightening travel and document verification processes, has raised questions among affected nations about the implications for international movement and trade.
In Kinshasa, authorities underscored their ongoing efforts to modernize administrative systems and enhance the security of Congolese passports and identification documents.
“The Congolese government reiterates its commitment to meeting international standards in document security,” the statement added, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining the free movement of people in line with diplomatic agreements.
Both sides agreed to continue a structured dialogue in the coming weeks. Technical consultations between specialized services in both countries are expected to clarify the scope of the proposed American measures and help mitigate any negative impact on bilateral relations.
As the DRC moves to reinforce its travel document systems, officials remain hopeful that transparent communication and targeted reforms will preserve longstanding ties with Washington.
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